What are VOCs?
VOCs (volatile organic compounds) are small carbon-based molecules that evaporate into the air.
They are present in everyday life. Anything with a smell releases VOCs, including natural sources like wood, coffee, and forests, as well as synthetic sources like plastics, adhesives, and coatings.
The term “VOC” can sound concerning, but it is a broad category. The more important question is:
What materials are these compounds coming from?

 
Does Western Red Cedar release VOCs?
Yes. Western Red Cedar is a naturally aromatic wood, so when heated, it releases its own organic compounds into the air.
These compounds are naturally occurring within the wood itself. They are not added chemicals or surface treatments.
This is what gives cedar its signature smell and why it has been used in saunas and outdoor environments for generations.

 
What compounds are found in Western Red Cedar?
Western Red Cedar contains naturally occurring compounds such as:

• Thujaplicins, associated with the wood’s resistance to decay
   

• Alpha-pinene, which creates a fresh, forest-like scent
   

• Cedrol, which provides a deeper, warm, woody aroma
   

These compounds are part of the tree’s natural chemistry and defense system.

 
Why do you use Western Red Cedar instead of Hemlock?
We choose Western Red Cedar because it is a naturally resilient and time-tested sauna material.
Cedar:

• Contains natural extractives associated with resistance to decay and microbial growth
   

• Is highly stable in heat and moisture environments
   

• Has a rich aroma and character
   

Hemlock, on the other hand:

• Is a more neutral, non-aromatic wood
   

• Does not contain the same level of natural extractives
   

• Relies more heavily on environment and maintenance for long-term durability
   

We prefer materials that actively work with the environment, not just passively exist in it.

 
What is “off-gassing” in a sauna?
Off-gassing refers to compounds being released into the air when materials are heated.
In our sauna, this primarily comes from:

• The natural aromatic compounds in cedar
   

• Any natural oil finishes used
   

This is most noticeable during the first few heat cycles.
We recommend running the sauna for about one hour before your first session.
 

Is Western Red Cedar safe?
Western Red Cedar is one of the most widely used and time-tested sauna materials in the world.
That said, individual sensitivity can vary. People with known sensitivities to cedar or strong aromas should use their own judgment and consult a professional if needed.
For the vast majority of users, cedar provides a clean, natural, and enjoyable sauna experience.
 
How does this compare to infrared saunas?
Infrared saunas use a different heating approach.
Instead of primarily heating the environment, they rely on engineered heating panels to emit radiant heat.
These panels are typically made from combinations of:

• Carbon heating elements
   

• Ceramic components
   

• Backing boards and insulation layers
   

• Electrical wiring and epoxy bonded plastic assemblies
   

This creates a different material environment compared to solid wood and simpler heating systems.
 

Why don’t you use infrared panels?
We made a deliberate decision not to use infrared panels for two primary reasons:
Material complexity
Infrared panels are layered, engineered products. Depending on the manufacturer, they may include carbon sheets, adhesives, resins, composite boards, and plastic or laminate layers.
When these materials are repeatedly heated, you are heating a more complex combination of bonded components.
Our philosophy is to keep materials as simple and transparent as possible.
Inconsistent manufacturing quality
Many infrared panels are mass-produced and sourced from overseas manufacturers. Quality can vary significantly between suppliers, even when products appear identical.
This can make it difficult to verify:

• Exact material composition
   

• Long-term durability
   

• Consistent quality control
   

Two panels can look the same on the outside but be built completely differently internally.


What do you use instead of infrared panels?
We use incandescent, red-stained glass bulbs.
This approach offers:

• Simple, proven technology
   

• Minimal material complexity
   

• No layered panels or hidden composites
   

• Direct heat and infrared output from a single source
   

This allows us to reduce unnecessary materials and maintain a more traditional, high-heat sauna experience.
 
Are infrared panels harmful?
Infrared panels are not inherently harmful.
However, because they are engineered products made from multiple materials, their composition and build quality matter.
Our decision is not based on saying infrared is “bad,” but on choosing:

• Simpler materials
   

• More transparent construction
   

• Fewer bonded and synthetic layers
   

 

Do you use glue in your sauna?
Yes.
High-quality woodworking requires adhesives in certain areas to ensure:

• Structural integrity
   

• Long-term durability
   

• Resistance to heat expansion and contraction
   

Avoiding glue entirely is not always realistic in a well-built product. The more important question is:
Where is the glue used and how is it used?
 

Is your glue safe?
We use a wood adhesive commonly used in applications such as cutting boards.

• Suitable for indirect food contact
   

• Used internally within the structure
   

• Not applied as an exposed surface
   

This allows us to maintain strength and durability without introducing unnecessary surface exposure.
 

What should I think when a company says “no glue”?
Customers should ask how the product is actually built.
In many wood products, adhesives are a normal and necessary part of construction. What matters most is:

• Transparency
   

• Material selection
   

• Proper application
   

Our approach is to be honest about how the sauna is built and focus on long-term quality and performance. From our experience, some companies stretch the truth when it comes to glue. Claiming a sauna has no glue is like claiming a pair of shoes has no laces
 

What is your overall material philosophy?
We believe in:

• Real materials over layered composites
   

• Simplicity over complexity
   

• Transparency over marketing claims
   

That means:

• Western Red Cedar for its natural properties
   

• Incandescent glass heat sources instead of engineered panels
   

• Structural adhesives used responsibly and internally
   

At the end of the day:
What matters most is what materials are being heated and what you are surrounding yourself with for 30 to 60 minutes at a time.
When investing in a sauna, we encourage people to do their homework. Many brands present themselves as U.S.-based, but rely on overseas manufacturing they’ve never personally vetted. A simple litmus test is transparency. Can they clearly show where and how their product is made? Are you able to virtually walk their factory floor?